Beirut: The “City Race,” organized by the Beirut Marathon Association, saw 2,600 runners take to the streets of the capital in its second edition. The event, held in collaboration with Virgin Unite, Beirut’s Governorate, the Beirut Municipality, and the Lebanese Athletics Federation, featured a 10-kilometer competitive race and a 5-kilometer fun run.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the race commenced on Prince Bashir Street in Al-Azarieh, adjacent to the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, and concluded at the Beirut Waterfront. The event began with a speech from Association President Mai El-Khalil, who welcomed participants and highlighted the marathon’s role as a beacon of hope and positive energy.
The Lebanese national anthem was played, followed by a moment of silence to honor the late artist Ziad Rahbani. The 10-kilometer race started at 6:30 a.m., succeeded by the 5-kilometer fun run at 8:00 a.m., which included 1,200 students from public schools, Islamic orphanages, charitable organizations, and National Education Scouts from across Lebanon. The event also featured a 3-kilometer roller derby.
In the 10-kilometer race, Ali Reda Kanaan from the Lebanese Army emerged as the winner for men, clocking in at 26:31 minutes. However, no new record was set, as the best record remains with Lebanese runner Zaid Al-Sayed, who resides in Germany, with a time of 14:30 minutes recorded in Australia. The women’s record is held by Ethiopian Bantu Repetto at 59:32 minutes.
Winners received victory shields, and cash prizes will be distributed to the top three men and women after doping test results are confirmed. Prizes are $750 for first place, $500 for second, and $300 for third.
Security was ensured by a Lebanese Army unit, with road closures managed by the Internal Security Forces. The Lebanese Red Cross and the Lebanese American University’s UMC-RH medical center were on-site for runner safety, alongside a team of physical therapists and 150 volunteers from the Lebanese Red Cross Youth Department handling logistical tasks.